When helping a resident with grooming, the CNA notices the resident's fingernails are very long and dirty. What should the CNA do?

Question

Accepted Answer

Report the findings to the nurse before providing nail care. When nails appear very long or dirty, the CNA should report findings to the nurse before proceeding, as this may indicate abnormalities warranting assessment. Routine nail care is within the CNA scope of practice per facility policy, but nails with unusual appearance, signs of infection, or residents with conditions such as diabetes or vascular disease require nursing assessment first. Trimming directly without assessment (A) may be unsafe. Soaking and cleaning (B) is appropriate for routine care but not for the condition described. Filing significantly (D) requires the same caution.